Libraries Connected is pleased to announce the publication of the evaluation report for the Novels that Shaped our World libraries programme.

In 2019, BBC Arts launched 100 Novels that Shaped our World, a list of 100 genre-busting novels written in the English language in the last 300 years selected by a celebrity panel. The list is divided into 10 themes, each with 10 books, which reflect the ways books help shape and influence our thinking.

To support the campaign Libraries Connected worked with the BBC to develop a year-long project to enable library services to develop activity and events spring boarding off the 100 Novels list to spark national debate around novels and celebrate the joy of reading. As part of the programme, 54 library services across England ran book-related cultural events, working in collaboration with BBC local radio, partner organisations and communities. The project was supported through the Arts Council England National Lottery Project Grants.

The project was led by Libraries Connected, with each participating library service free to design their own creative activities, based on local needs and interests. The only requirement was that these should be inspired by the BBC’s 100 Novels that Shaped our World list, and that they had to target diverse communities who were less engaged with libraries.

The evaluation report, which can be downloaded below in PDF and Word formats, draws upon findings from HOPE-STONE Research and data gathered by the project team.

Here is just a snapshot of the impact on participants. Much more detailed information is included in the full report. At the bottom of this page you will also find the project brochure, produced to highlight and celebrate the fantastic work of each participating library.

• 90% said they enjoyed the event or activity they attended or took part in, describing it as ‘fun, interesting and informal’
• 88% agreed they had learnt something new from participating
• 74% agreed that it had made them want to read more novels or stories
• For some, participating made them think about the value of the library and in some cases how they had forgotten about what it can offer. Taking part re-kindled their interest and willingness to engage.